Q: I’ve heard that yoga can improve immunity—but should I go to class when I have a cold or the flu?

A. No. From a public-health perspective, attending class while sick can spread your illness to classmates. But if you’re feeling up to it, practice gentle yoga at home, including pranayama (breathing practices). A small 2013 Norwegian study suggests that a combination of gentle yoga and meditation may support your immune system. And there’s also evidence that asana has effects on various markers that help your immune system function better, such as reducing the stress hormone cortisol. So though we don’t have specific research telling us that yoga gets us over sickness faster, it’s worth a shot!

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Victoria Maizes, MDExecutive director of the University of Arizona’s Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine